Joyce Ann Foster, 80, of Elkville, passed away at 9:22 A.M., Tuesday, January 27, 2026 at the Pinckneyville Community Hospital in Pinckneyville, IL.
Joyce trusted in Jesus Christ as her Savior and Lord as a young child while attending the Methodist Church in Oraville.  She later as an adult, re-stated her belief in and commitment to Christ, was Baptized by immersion, and became an active and devoted member of Elkville First Baptist Church on March 16, 1969.  She served the Lord at EFBC as a Sunday School Teacher for children for over 55 years, until her passing.  Many 8, 9, and 10 year old boys and girls came to know Jesus as their Savior by the Holy Spirit using her teaching in their lives.  Joyce also taught Vacation Bible School for children, was a Girls in Action "G.A.'s" Leader, and a girls' "Acteens" Leader - taking the girls to a number of regional and national missions' events.  She also participated in the "Meals on Wheels" program to take meals to shut-ins, and participated in the International Meals program at the Baptist Student Center at SIUC.
She attended Vergennes High School, graduated from Elverado High School, and completed a one-year certification in Accounting at SIUC.  She worked in the Accounting Office at SIUC for a number of years, but changed to be a "stay-at-home mom" following the birth of her first child.  After the children were older, she was also Church Secretary for 11 years.
Though she suffered a debilitating stroke 25 years ago, Joyce had great determination and always had a smile.
Joyce was born May 15, 1945 in Murphysboro, IL, the daughter of Fred Eugene and Willadene Joyce (Talley) Farley.
She married Stephen Lynn Foster on September 3, 1966 at the Elkville First Baptist Church.
Joyce is survived by her husband, a son - Pastor Scott Alan Foster of Elkville, a daughter - Amy Lynn Geist (T.J.) of Columbia, IL, and grandchildren - Jaylyn Anaye Geist, Adley Brielle Geist, Leighton Aubrey Geist, and Colton Matthias Geist.  She is also survived by a sister - Cheryl Lynn Preston of Benton, and a brother - Richard Lee Farley of Marion.
She was preceded in death by her parents, and one brother - Frank Farley who died as a baby.
Funeral services will be at 11:00 A.M., Saturday, January 31, 2026 at the Elkville First Baptist Church in Elkville with Pastor Scott Slone officiating.
Friends may call from 9 A.M. until the time of service on Saturday at the church.
Burial will be in the Elkville Cemetery in Elkville, IL.
Friends may make memorials to Elkville First Baptist Church or Pinckneyville Community Hospital and will be accepted at the funeral home.
Searby Funeral Home in Du Quoin is in charge of arrangements.